Osimhen returns from injury as Galatasaray secure victory over Alanyaspor

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen made his long-awaited comeback from injury on Friday night as Galatasaray defeated Alanyaspor 1-0 in the Turkish Super Lig.

The Super Eagles forward, who had been sidelined for three matches with an ankle injury, was introduced in the 85th minute as coach Okan Buruk sought to ease him back into action ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield.

Osimhen picked up the injury during Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda on September 6 in Uyo, ruling him out of key fixtures for both club and country, including Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa and Galatasaray’s matches against Konyaspor, Eyüpspor, and Eintracht Frankfurt.

Despite his absence, Galatasaray maintained their perfect start to the season. Mauro Icardi’s 23rd-minute strike sealed Friday’s win at the GAİN Park Stadyumu, extending the Istanbul giants’ lead at the top of the table with 19 points from seven matches.

Osimhen’s return is a significant boost for the Turkish champions, who are counting on his pace, power, and finishing ability to strengthen their attack alongside Icardi and Leroy Sané. The 26-year-old had already scored twice in three league appearances before the setback, and his partnership with Icardi is seen as a key weapon for Galatasaray both domestically and in Europe.